Security Issues in Free Web Hosting

Websites being run on free servers are a prime target for hackers. The security issues that are now common with this type of hosting platform is one of the main reasons that many individuals choose to stay away. A large number of hackers use these servers as a way to distribute the MMC (Mobile Malicious Code) and infectious forms of spyware that are designed to falter the performance of an operating system and thieve personal information. A free web host unknowingly allows them to commit these internet crimes in affordable fashion while remaining anonymous at the same time.

Starting from the beginning of 2005, Websense Security Labs has reported well over 2,500 cases of free websites that distributed MMC, Trojans and spyware. More than 500 websites were created on free hosting platforms to spread spyware and malaware in July of 2005 alone.

Since then, this trend has adapted to other forms of free web hosting. A few of the services used in this game of manipulation include blogs, community forums, photo sharing websites, fan pages, social networks such as Myspace and many more.

It is believed that many of these free websites implement a form of automated software intended for shared hackers. Others are well designed and appear to be legitimate on first glance. They may have a delightful tune playing in the background with a few interesting pages to surf though. At the same time, this site is downloading viruses and spyware to keep an eye on your every movement.

Most of these fraudulent websites do not have a lengthy life span, usually no longer than a week. While this is good news for the web host they may have tarnished, it also makes them nearly impossible to trace. More than likely the hacker will move onto another free host and start the process all over again.

Many of the security issues that come along with a free hosting platform can not be avoided. These servers are shared which makes it easy for a hacker to find your site and lure you into a trap. Similar to the lack of support, free web hosts cannot afford to implement quality security measures if they want to stay alive. Once again, the best advice for free hosting is to say NO!

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